Cotsen Children's Library

Collection of miniature books open and displaying illustrations on inside pages
About Us

The Cotsen Children's Library is a unit within the Department of Special Collections at the Princeton University Library.

Youth Programs

From story times to large-scale events, Cotsen has a variety of programs for you to discover and enjoy!

Research Collection

A major historical collection of rare illustrated children's books, manuscripts, original artwork, prints, and educational toys from the 15th century to the present day.

bookscape fireplace

Visit Bookscape, our Children's Gallery

Visitors can explore Bookscape, a picturesque environment with whimsical spaces to read, including a two-story bonsai tree. Like our programs, Bookscape is open to the public and free of charge. Please bring your family to relax and read!

Plan Your Visit

Hours »
Location and Directions »
Upcoming Events and Programming »

 

Pop Art with Balloons

Creative Blog

Know a teacher, librarian, parent, or friend who is looking for creative literacy connections? Look no further than Pop Goes the Page, our fantastic outreach blog full of projects and new ideas galore!

Read Pop Goes the Page

 

Smiling little black beetle looking at a picture book about insects

Curatorial Blog

Interested in learning more about our rare children's literature collection? Here you will find essays, images, publication announcements, exhibit information, and curatorial program highlights.  

Read our Curatorial Blog

 

Children Projector

Online Exhibitions

Spanning from 2001-2010, you can get a glimpse into the Cotsen collections by viewing these small online exhibitions.

See our Online Exhibitions »